Relocation plans anger Ndebele families in the Cullinan area

During a visit to the proposed relocation site last Saturday, the Streeknews found the Masombuka family members diligently tending to the graves of their ancestors, an act they described as a duty and privilege.

Their efforts highlighted their deep connection to these sacred grounds, which are under threat from a proposed development project by the City of Tshwane (CoT).

The family expressed distress and anger over these plans, which the municipality made without consulting them.

Speaking on behalf of her family, Nyaziwe Masombuka Maree explained the gravity of the situation.

“These graves are sacred. They hold our history and connection to our ancestors,” she said.

“Relocating people to this area would cause irreversible damage to our heritage, the environment and the community. It is an affront to our ancestors and identity.”

Nyaziwe, the daughter of Stephen Matsobane Masombuka and the granddaughter of John Masheleng Masombuka, expressed frustration at the municipality’s and other officials’ “lack of respect and engagement”.

“They never consulted us about this disrespectful decision, and we are deeply upset. This is our Ndebele heritage and pride. Like people who respect their ancestors, we cannot allow the government to undermine and disrespect us.”

The family said the burial grounds are a living testament to their lineage and cultural roots, spanning generations.

“Our ancestors are the foundation of who we are today. Disturbing their resting place is more than an insult; it violates our dignity and history.

“We have never neglected these graves; we always cared for and respected them. To now hear that people will be relocated to the area surrounding our ancestral graves is deeply hurtful,” Nyaziwe added.

Nyaziwe raised concerns about accountability and engagement from the authorities.

“We, as a family, need to engage with the politicians behind this decision. They must explain how they reached this conclusion without consulting the affected families. If politicians or officials believe our heritage will be protected when thousands of people are relocated here, they should relocate them to their own ancestors’ graves.”

The family emphasised they were not against development but strongly believed it should not come at the expense of their heritage and the sanctity of their ancestors’ resting places.

“It is not our problem that people lack housing; it is the government’s problem. Let them solve it without disturbing our peace.”

Joined by other concerned residents, the family vowed to continue fighting to protect the graves and the surrounding environment. They called for immediate action to protect this heritage site, which holds immense cultural, historical, and environmental value.

“This is more than a family issue; it is about preserving our collective history and identity. Development must be done with respect for the people and the land. They could use other locations without destroying our heritage,” Nyaziwe explained.

The Streeknews previously reported on the CoT announcing plans to buy an agricultural property in Cullinan and establish 1 600 stands for informal housing.

These will go to Mamelodi residents living in flood-prone areas.

A committee representing the community estimated that if these stands housed families of five members each, they could expect an influx of at least 8 000 people. The residents and businesspeople are concerned about the inadequate infrastructure and employment opportunities for so many people.

Cullinan is known for its historical value, and many businesses tap into the tourist attractions in the area.